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Sign Language and Oral Interpreters

Certification, Licensing, and Special Requirements

Certification or Licensing

The National Interpreter Certification Program is sponsored by the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID). Certification is awarded to applicants who pass a multiple-choice knowledge examination, an interview, and a performance examination. RID certification is the only national certification for sign language interpreters.

Most qualified sign language interpreters without certification are in the process of getting certified. Tests are expensive and are only offered at various times of the year, at random sites. As a result, interpreters don't take the tests until they are certain they can pass them. Certificants must keep their certification valid by earning continuing education credits via a RID-approved sponsor. Contact RID for further information regarding continuing education requirements.